Euphoria Season 3 Criticized for Copying Scrapped Show The Idol

Euphoria's new season is getting negative reviews, with many saying it feels like a copy of The Idol, a show that was cancelled. This is a big change from what fans expected.
By Newsroom | Television, Entertainment |

NEW DIRECTION SPARKS CRITICISM AMIDST CLAIMS OF RECYCLED NARRATIVES

Euphoria's third season is facing a barrage of criticism, with fans and viewers alike asserting that creator Sam Levinson has steered the series into territory reminiscent of his previously shelved project, "The Idol." The latter show, reportedly pulled from air after being labeled "torture porn," appears to have influenced Euphoria's current trajectory, leading to claims that the new season is a "senseless continuation" and a derivative of Levinson's prior work.

How Sam Levinson ruined Euphoria: Creator turned series three into a copy of his previous show The Idol, which was pulled off air after being branded 'torture porn' - 1

The perception that Euphoria season three mirrors "The Idol" has fueled significant online discourse, with social media platforms alight with comments such as "euphoria season 3 is just the idol." This sentiment points to a perceived decline in writing quality, with one viewer noting, "To be clear on why I hate this season of Euphoria: the writing is bad."

How Sam Levinson ruined Euphoria: Creator turned series three into a copy of his previous show The Idol, which was pulled off air after being branded 'torture porn' - 2

SHIFTING NARRATIVES AND ACCUSATIONS OF GRUBBY CONTENT

The latest installment of Euphoria, which premiered on April 12, has ignited controversy over its graphic scenes and perplexing plot developments. Critics and viewers have lambasted Levinson's handling of female characters and what are described as "disturbing plot developments." One review characterized the season as "grim TV that seems hellbent on rattling us for the sake of it," further lamenting a narrative that appears "desperate to unleash Euphoria’s brand of brainrot bimbo-ism."

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How Sam Levinson ruined Euphoria: Creator turned series three into a copy of his previous show The Idol, which was pulled off air after being branded 'torture porn' - 3

The show's perceived departure from its earlier focus on gen Z's struggles with sex, drugs, and mental health is also a point of contention. Instead, some critics suggest it has devolved into a "confused exploration of the sex economy."

How Sam Levinson ruined Euphoria: Creator turned series three into a copy of his previous show The Idol, which was pulled off air after being branded 'torture porn' - 4

INTERNAL TENSIONS AND PRODUCTION DELAYS

Reports also suggest internal friction impacting the show's production. A falling out between Zendaya, the series' lead, and Levinson has been cited as a contributing factor to delays in Euphoria season three's filming. It is understood that Zendaya met with HBO executives, reportedly requesting the inclusion of an additional executive producer for the season.

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These tensions reportedly stemmed from Levinson's prior prioritization of "The Idol." Despite these issues, Lily-Rose Depp, who starred in "The Idol," has publicly defended Levinson, calling him "the best director" she has worked with and stating she has "never felt more supported or respected in a creative space."

BACKGROUND ON "THE IDOL"

"The Idol," which also featured The Weeknd and was co-created by Levinson, experienced significant behind-the-scenes turmoil. Director Amy Seimetz departed the project in April 2022, with the show reportedly already 80 percent complete. Production costs reportedly escalated as Levinson expanded the cast, adding figures like Dan Levy and Jennie from Blackpink. The show's eventual fate remains unclear, with HBO yet to provide an official release date.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are people saying Euphoria season 3 is like The Idol?
Many viewers and critics feel that Euphoria's third season uses similar storylines and themes to Sam Levinson's cancelled show, The Idol. They believe the writing quality has decreased and the new season feels unoriginal.
Q: What specific criticisms are being made about Euphoria season 3?
People are unhappy with the graphic scenes, confusing plot points, and how female characters are handled. Some critics feel the show has moved away from its original focus on Gen Z issues and is now exploring the 'sex economy' in a confusing way.
Q: Are there any production issues affecting Euphoria season 3?
Reports suggest there have been tensions, including a disagreement between lead actress Zendaya and creator Sam Levinson. This is thought to be partly because Levinson prioritized The Idol previously, leading to filming delays for Euphoria.
Q: What was The Idol show about and why was it cancelled?
The Idol, starring Lily-Rose Depp and The Weeknd, faced significant behind-the-scenes problems and was criticized for its graphic content and perceived exploitation. HBO has not yet announced an official release date for the show.